Letters to the Editor

Seelye is Most Capable and Qualified

Apr 27, 20230

To the Editor:

Joel Seelye is the most capable and qualified candidate for Blair County Judge. His legal career has focused on the areas of law most commonly encountered in the courtroom and he has practiced law with the highest standards of honesty, fairness, and ethical compass. He has also pledged to run an efficient and fiscally responsible courtroom.

Joel has also dedicated countless hours volunteering his time to serve our community as evident by his involvement in numerous local boards and service to non-profit and youth sports organizations. He was also instrumental in bringing several pro-bono legal services to Blair county including the Justice Project and Wills for Heros program.

Joel is dedicated to his family, our community, and his career and is the right person to ensure that Blair County remains a safe and desirable place to live and raise a family. Please join me in supporting Joel Seelye for judge.

Mark Boland

Hollidaysburg

Judge Fred Miller has served our Blair County for over 20 years as a Magisterial Judge. He is a man of honesty and integrity. He has worked in the best interest of the residents of Blair County. The fiscal side of his office is efficient and timely. The court side of his office follows the laws of our constitution for the betterment of all. Fred is well respected within the law enforcement community due his capability of applying the law in a fair and equal manner. Fred Miller has served our community in many other capacities, such as the Blair County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and Northern Blair County Recreation Commission. He has donated countless hours of his own time for the betterment of our way of life, here in Central Pennsylvania. Certainly there is no better candidate than Fred Miller for the seat on The Blair County Court of Common Pleas.

David E. Burchfield, Jr.

Duncansville

Joel Seelye might be the best attorney in Blair County. He and I refer a lot of legal matters or cases to each other. I don’t know that I’m at the top of his list; he is at the top of my list. That’s because I trust Joel to get it done and to do it right. For twenty years that has been my experience professionally. Joel has all the legal-know how, experience, and training to serve us well as a judge.

Joel is also a family-man. He and his wife Amanda are raising four terrific children. Joel coaches the kids’ sports teams. He serves on the board or as the pro bono solicitor of too many non-profit organizations to list. When Ben Franklin said “If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it,” he would’ve had someone like Joel Seelye in mind. Blair County deserves a judge who will get things done. Vote for Joel.

Sean Burke

Hollidaysburg

I graduated from Central High School and worked as a teacher at the Tyrone Area School District. I also served as the attendance director at Tyrone where part of my duties included the handling of truancy citations at District Judge Fred Miller’s Office. During this time, I was regularly in front of Judge Miller and personally observed his dedication and commitment to students.

School attendance is a major issue. Miller understands the value of an education and the importance for students to graduate. Judge Miller worked with former Blair County Judge Tim Sullivan, CYF and the Blair County School Superintendents to establish a County Truancy Court. He supports the re-establishment of Truancy Court if successfully elected on May 16.

On May 16, please join me in voting for Judge Fred Miller. He’s the Right Judge, Right Now.

James Butler

Tyrone

I have had the privilege to serve the citizens of Blair County as an Altoona Police Officer and Blair County Sheriff for nearly forty years. During my career I gained an appreciation for the qualities that make a person an outstanding Judge. Several of those qualities include knowledge of the law and experience working in the criminal justice system. A sense of fairness, even temperament and above all integrity.

District Judge Fred Miller possesses all those traits and many more! Additionally, he firmly believes that public safety is of the utmost importance. His experience as a proven Judge leaves no doubt that if an individual convicted of a crime and appears before Judge Miller, the person will be held accountable and face the consequences he or she deserves.

I am honored to endorse Judge Fred Miller in the May 16 Primary Election.

Mitch Cooper

Blair County Sheriff, Retired

Altoona

I am writing this letter in support of District Judge Fred Miller for the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. Judge Miller is born and raised in Blair County. He graduated from the Penn State Dickinson School of Law and has over 20 plus of proven judicial experience.

Miller worked with Judges Todd Kelly, Steve Jackson and Craig Ormsby to establish the Blair County Booking Center at no cost to the taxpayers which has helped keep law enforcement on the street protecting our communities. Judge Miler also worked with Judge Tim Sullivan, CYF and the Blair County Superintendents of Schools to establish a Truancy Court to help our children stay in school and graduate.

Other candidates make promises – Judge Miller has already done it. That’s why law enforcement groups from all over Blair County support him. He’s the Right Judge, Right Now. Vote for Fred Miller on May 16.

Cheryl Davis

Hollidaysburg

I am writing to show my full support of Judge Fred Miller. I have personally known Judge Miller for approximately 25 years. He has always been a positive member of the Blair County communities, and one who is knowledgeable in helping with a vast range of legal matters. Judge Miller has always provided support, help, and insight when needed.

Judge Miller is a dedicated, active member of the community that I raise my three children in. He is heavily involved in both the Norther Blair County Recreational Center and in the Tyrone Area Soccer Clubs and Boosters. Numerous families have benefited from the countless hours that he has devoted to providing better opportunities to youth sports in our area.

I believe Judge Fred Miller to be the best candidate for the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. Please join me in voting for Judge Miller on May 16.

Shannon D. Davis

Tyrone

I am honored to endorse Judge Fred Miller in the May 16 Primary Election.

Mitch Cooper

Blair County Sheriff, Retired

Altoona

Cheryl Davis

Hollidaysburg

I believe Judge Fred Miller to be the best candidate for the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. Please join me in voting for Judge Miller on May 16.

Shannon D. Davis

Tyrone

I’ve known District Judge Fred Miller since 2005, when he attended the Magisterial District Judge continuing legal education program, where I served as Executive Director. Upon his Supreme Court appointment to the Minor Judiciary Education Board and elevation to Chairperson, I got a first-hand view of his strength as a jurist, community leader and advocate for the citizens of his community and rule of law for all.

Judge Miller is kind, thoughtful and measured. He has a keen sense of right and wrong, appreciates burdens of proof, as well as what is fair, reasonable and necessary in his decisions. As Chairman, he was tasked with many responsibilities and delivered superbly.

While I do not typically write such letters, I am proud to endorse his candidacy, knowing his dedication and preparedness. He is absolutely the best choice for Blair County Judge. If you want to be treated fairly, vote for Fred.

Susan Davis

Harrisburg

Many of the letters in support of District Judge Fred Miller have discussed his 20 plus years of judicial experience. Judges are encouraged to be active in their community – Miller is one of those judges.

As President of his local Kiwanis Club, Miller has run the Reliance Bank Holliday Varsity Basketball Tournament for 11 years. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the elementary reading programs at our local schools. Miller also serves on the Blair County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. As Vice-President of the Northern Blair Recreation Commission he oversees a youth recreation and travel soccer program that has over 300 participants this Spring.

Born and raised in Blair County, Miller has worked hard in and out of the Courtroom to help make Blair County a great place to call home. Please join me in voting for Judge Fred Miller on May 16. He’s the Right Judge, Right Now.

Leonard DelBaggio

Tyrone

As a Blair County Attorney, I wanted to write about the primary Judicial election. My purpose is not to minimize the other candidates, but to comment on the candidate with whom I have had the most professional experience.

Attorney Joel Seelye is one of the candidates. I have had many cases where he has represented the opposing party. Joel is a true professional, always well prepared, organized, and presents himself as a strong advocate for his clients. He is a talented communicator, with excellent legal writing skills. I have read many of his legal briefs. They are well written, persuasive, and display a clear understanding of the law.

Attorney Seelye is a dedicated husband and father. As judge, I believe he will be fair and impartial. Most importantly, I believe he is running for the right reason, that being to serve our community with skill and passion.

Terry W. Despoy

Hollidaysburg

I am writing in support of Judge Fred Miller for a seat on the Blair County Court of Common Pleas.

Judge Miller possesses all of the qualities necessary to be an outstanding Judge for the citizens of Blair County. He is of great character and has the innate ability and intellect to apply the law as the Constitution intends. He is the only candidate with experience on the bench, serving the people of Northern Blair County well for over 20 years as a District Judge.

Most of all, Judge Miller shares our values. He was born, raised and educated in Blair County, and has a reputation for being a law and order judge, as evidenced by the endorsements he has received from law enforcement at the local, county and state levels.

Judge Fred Miller is the right candidate, right now for a seat on the Blair County Court of Common Pleas!

Bob Fisher

Bellwood

On May 16, voters will be asked to elect almost 1/2 of the Judges at the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. Experience matters. District Judge Fred Miller has over 20+ years of Judicial Experience. Candidates running for office make promises. Judge Miller has already done it.

Judge Miller is born and raised in Blair County. Miller has been recognized at the State level for his Judicial abilities and has the unequaled support of law enforcement. He has a proven track record of being fair yet firm and has protected our children and families.

Judge Miller is #1 on the Republican ballot and #2 on the Democrat ballot. On May 16, vote for Judge Fred Miller for Blair County Judge. He is Right Judge, Right Now!

Peter Gardella

Altoona

I am writing to show my support of Judge Fred Miller. Judge Miller has proven himself as an extremely capable judge with over 20 years of experience handling cases covering a wide range of legal issues.

Judge Miller is a caring and honest man who exemplifies what it means to be a good judge. He puts his community first. He has an incredible work ethic and is willing to go the extra mile for others. He is a great communicator with an excellent ability to build relationships with those around him. He has the most support from law enforcement.

I truly believe Judge Fred Miller is the best candidate for the Court of Common Pleas. Join me in supporting Judge Miller by voting on May 16.

Niki L. Goodwin

Tyrone

For approximately 16 years I have has the pleasure of working with Joel on a daily basis which gives me a unique perspective of his character and his abilities. I submit, he possesses the three qualities that Blair County needs in its next Judge.

First, Joel has integrity. Even when faced with the most difficult of ethical situations, I can honestly say I have never seen Joel compromise his integrity.

Second, Joel possesses the right kind of experience. Whether family, criminal or civil litigation, his familiarity with Blair County Court procedures and standards enables him to be ready on day one.

Third, he has the right temperament. He treats his clients and his fellow lawyers with respect while maintaining the composure and professionalism that we expect in our next judge.

I am proud to support my partner and friend, Joel Seelye as the next Judge of Blair County.

Brian Grabill

Altoona

Leaders don’t set out to be leaders; they set out to make a difference”, (author unknown). When I think of Joel Seelye this quote resonates with me, as Joel is so genuine, inspirational and driven in his commitment to making a difference. Joel doesn’t let chance dictate his opportunities but creates opportunities so his passion to make a better Blair County is realized.

I’ve personally been privileged to work with Joel on many YMCA initiatives where the character values of honesty, respect and caring shine through in all he does. Joel exemplifies these values in his daily life as a family man, a friend and a community leader. Joel’s belief in his duty to serve is reflected in his volunteerism at numerous community organizations. His approach to service is nothing less than stellar. He leads with decency, fairness, and integrity; all characteristics any community would want in their next judge.

Sharon Jones

Carrolltown

I am writing this letter in support of Fred Miller for Judge for Blair County Court of Common Pleas. I have known Fred’s father for over 40 years, as we both worked as administrators in Blair County school districts. Consequently, I learned to know Fred. Fred, indeed, comes from “good stock”. He is a man of high integrity. He is dedicated to serving the citizens of Blair County.

Fred has been a judge for over 20 years, serving as the Magisterial District Judge in northern Blair County. Judge Miller knows the law and has experience applying it in a fair and equitable manner. He is the only candidate with proven judicial experience. Judge Miller has a strong work ethic. There is no backlog in his court. He is endorsed by many law enforcement groups. He is “The Right Judge, Right Now!”

Chuck Kensinger

Martinsburg

On behalf of Teamsters Local Union No. 8, representing 2,600 working men and women employed at Penn State including over 20 commonwealth campuses, I am pleased to announce our endorsement of Judge Fred Miller for the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. Judge Miller is also endorsed by Teamsters Local Union No. 110 covering Altoona, Johnstown and nearby vicinities.

Finally, Teamsters Joint Council No. 40, representing nearly 35,000 hard working men and women representing employment in various public and private sector jobs including transportation, warehouse and manufacturing as well as public service jobs, has endorsed Judge Fred Miller for Blair County Judge.

Judge Miller possesses over 20+ years of Judicial experience and has a proven track record of being fair yet firm and protecting our children and families. Please join us in supporting Judge Fred Miller when voting on May 16.

Jon Light

President, Teamsters Local Union No. 8

State College

I have had the pleasure of knowing District Judge Fred Miller and his family for 40 plus years. He is born and raised in Blair County and presently resides just outside of Altoona in Sinking Valley. Miller graduated from the Penn State Dickinson School of Law and has over twenty years of judicial experience.

Judge Miller has the unequaled support of law enforcement for Blair County Judge. Judge Miller was unanimously endorsed by the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association which represents over 9,000 active and retired State Troopers in Pennsylvania. Their support was based upon his “resolute determination in making Pennsylvania a safe place for our citizens to live, work and raise a family.” Miller is also endorsed by Blair County Sherriff Jim Ott and former Sherriffs Mitch Cooper and Larry Field.

Experience matters. On May 16, vote for Judge Fred Miller. He is the Right Judge, Right Now!

Randy Manning

Hollidaysburg

This is written as a letter of support to elect Fred Miller as Judge of the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. Fred is a lifelong resident of Blair County and is committed to serving our community. Fred has over 20 years of judicial experience and has found time to be actively involved in assisting our youth through the Kiwanis Club of Northern Blair County and numerous sports activities for children. Fred has earned a reputation of being tough on crime and criminals and has the support of most of our county’s law enforcement agencies. Fred also helps children through a truancy program that is aimed at preventing school truancy and assists the most vulnerable youth to stay in school and become productive member of our community. Pease join me in voting for Fred Miller for Judge of the Blair County Court of Common Pleas.

Frank Meloy

Altoona

As the former Dean of Students at the Tyrone Area Middle School, I appeared in court on a regular basis in front of Judge Miller for truancy matters. The Blair County Chamber of Commerce is active through a subcommittee made up of school personnel, business leaders, and community providers in working to address truancy concerns in Blair County. Our students are our future.

As a result of his 20+ years of judicial experiences, Judge Miller is recognized as a leader on truancy law issues. He worked to establish a truancy court at the Court of Common Pleas along with former Judge Tim Sullivan, CYF, and Blair County School Superintendents. A life-long resident of Blair County, Judge Miller cares about our children and families and the future of our community.

On May 16, join me in voting for Judge Fred Miller for Blair County Judge. He is the Right Judge, Right Now!

Lindsay Miksich

Tyrone

Blair voters have three qualified candidates for two vacancies for Common Pleas Judge. While your second selection may require greater discernment, I submit that Fred Miller is the most qualified and proven candidate worthy of your first vote.

Until my retirement, I served 16 years with Fred Miller in our respective positions as Magisterial District Judge. He demonstrates a sharp legal mind, is a defender of truth, and applies the law firmly and fairly. For over 20 years, Judge Miller has worked tirelessly to uphold the integrity of our judicial system and to preserve the safety and well-being of all citizens.

He acknowledges the high honor of serving justice and seeks your support to continue serving at the higher court level. As an attorney, former law clerk, MDJ, instructor, community leader, father, and husband, Fred Miller offers voters of both parties a uniquely qualified first choice for Common Pleas Judge.

Craig E. Ormsby

Magisterial District Judge, Retired

Martinsburg

Attorney Joel Seelye is the most qualified candidate for Judge of the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. I am a newly admitted attorney in Blair County who has the honor and privilege to learn from and work with Joel. Joel has spent his entire legal career in Blair County practicing in many areas of the law, primarily in areas that are litigation-focused. His experience practicing in our Court almost daily for over 16 years truly sets him above and apart from the other candidates.

Joel’s passion and dedication to the law, his clients, and our community is admirable and inspiring, and I am lucky to learn from him. His knowledge and expertise of our Court and its processes make him prepared to take on the judicial role immediately. These are the characteristics that our newest Judge should possess, and no candidate possesses them more than Joel.

Ashley Passarello, Esq.

This year, Blair County voters will choose 2 new judges for the Court of Common Pleas. Joel Seelye should be one of them.

Joel and his wife Amanda are raising 4 children here and are vested in our community.

I have referred many cases to Joel and have come to know what a gifted and diligent attorney he is. His vast knowledge of the law, his hard work and his respect for people, make him unquestionably qualified to be our judge.

On Republican Committee, I have witnessed Joel’s conservative values. We can trust him when he is called upon to address crime, delinquency and illegal drugs. It is no surprise that he is endorsed by our District Attorney Pete Weeks and Sherriff Jim Ott.

Joel is for all of us. Please join me in voting Joel Seelye for Judge.

Michael Routch

Duncansville

I am excited to announce my support for Joel Seelye for Court of Common Pleas Judge in Blair County. Attorney Seelye is by far the most qualified candidate to serve in this position. He has spent his entire legal career in Blair County. While he’s argued cases in other counties and even before the Pennsylvania Appellate Courts, he spends most of his time right here in Blair County. Joel has extensive experience with criminal, civil, family and business law. Additionally Mr. Seelye is a committed husband father and citizen. He’s served on a number of local non-profit boards and has offered his services to many at no cost. We should want a judge that is by far the most experienced, committed and qualified candidate to be our next judge. I encourage everyone to join me in supporting Joel Seelye for Judge!

A. C. Stickel

Altoona

I am writing to offer my whole-hearted endorsement of Joel Seelye’s candidacy for Court of Common Pleas judge. I had the privilege of working with Joel in several business and nonprofit legal endeavors and his work is top notch. He is one of the most respected legal minds in our community. In addition to his law acumen, Joel is a tireless volunteer for several nonprofit organizations to include the YMCA and youth sports.

Finally, as a member of the Republican State Committee, I have personally worked with Joel in rewriting our county GOP party bylaws and ensuring election integrity locally. Joel spent countless pro bono legal hours to ensure our county party is strong and our votes count. He is the only candidate in race to do so.

Joel is a true leader and a prudent attorney. I am proud to support his candidacy.

Bill Ward Jr.

Hollidaysburg

Joel Seelye has over 16 years of experience in civil, criminal, and family law. His even temperament, real-world experience, and legal knowledge will allow him to interpret and apply the law fairly and impartially. It is what we should demand of our elected judges.

Joel’s dedication to our community is admirable. He supports Blair County children and families by serving on various non-profit boards and coaching youth sports. He assisted in creating a non-profit providing free family law legal services for victims of domestic abuse and brought the Wills for Heroes program to Blair County for our Veterans, first responders, and essential personnel.

Experience matters on day one. The current elected District Attorney and Sheriff, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #51, and Blair Bedford Central Labor Council endorse Joel, which solidifies him as the best candidate. Join me on May 16 and vote Joel for Judge!

Morgan Williams

Hollidaysburg

I am writing in support of Judge Fred Miller for the Blair County Court of Common Pleas. As a former Blair County Commissioner, I worked with Judge Miller on a number of matters involving the Court system. He earned a reputation of being fair yet firm and applying the law fairly and evenly to all those who appeared before him. Miller has handled over 60,000 cases involving civil, criminal and protection from abuse matters since taking office and is in the Courtroom daily.

Additionally, Judge Miller works hard to run a financially responsible Court. He has been recognized at the state level for running an efficient Court. There is no backlog in his Court and his efforts have saved the taxpayers of Blair County thousands of dollars.

Please join me on May 16 in voting for Judge Fred Miller for Blair County Judge.

Barry Wright

Altoona